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Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard
They have a 2012 model which has the cold weather package that is now mandatory for cold areas.
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The CWP is standard equipment on all 2012 models regardless of area.
Quote:
Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard
It includes a battery heater (though I think they all heat the battery if/when it is plugged in?)
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Only comes on when the battery reaches -20F and battery charge is >= 30% and stays on until battery reaches -20F.
Quote:
Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard
and heated seats, and maybe heat outside mirrors.
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No heated mirrors, but heated seats front and rear and does have a heated steering wheel.
Quote:
Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard
I'm also curious if they have an direct-heated electric defroster.
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The HVAC system is quite standard, except that instead of using waste heat from an engine to heat the coolant, it uses a 5-6 kW heating element to heat the coolant.
Most people feel that it would be more efficient if it heated air directly, but I'm sure Nissan engineers had some sort of good reason for doing this way. The Volt and Prius plug-in are basically the same - perhaps even the Mitsubishi i, too? Not sure about the Focus EV or Tesla Roadster.